Thrill of Friday Afternoon Yacht Racing on Steinlager 2 in Auckland Harbor
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle deck activity like moving about the boat and managing sails during the race.
Overview
Join the iconic Steinlager 2 or Lion New Zealand for an exhilarating 3-4 hour yacht race in Auckland Harbor. Perfect for ages 13+, this Friday afternoon adventure blends maritime history, competitive sailing, and a spirited prize-giving party.
Friday Afternoon Yacht Racing
3 hours • Book now - places go fast!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of sailing on the iconic Steinlager 2 or Lion New Zealand during the RNZYS evening race! Join us for an unforgettable 3-4 hour adventure, perfect for ages 13 and up. Celebrate your journey at the prize-giving party and create lasting memories with fellow sailors.
Duration
3-4 hours
Ages
Ages 13+ (under 18s accompanied by an adult)
About
Join us on select Fridays for an unforgettable adventure aboard the legendary Steinlager 2 or Lion New Zealand in the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) evening race! This is an incredible opportunity to experience sailing on a true icon.
Event Details
Meeting Point: Viaduct (by the Explore kiosk) Time: 3:00 PM SHARP
After the race, we'll return to the Viaduct. You are invited to join the prize-giving party at the RNZYS. Feel free to make your own way there and celebrate the evening fellow sailors!
Utterly amazing
"This was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and was utterly amazing. I say this as an older woman with no sailing history and limited mobility. I felt entirely welcome and the entire thing was fantastic. Make yourself do it even if it’s lashing rain and high winds. The crew is brimming with expertise and you’ll be so glad you took the leap." — Kate S, USA, November 2023
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Auckland’s harbor winds can shift quickly—wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the race.
Arrive early for briefing
Get familiar with the boat and safety instructions before the race starts to maximize your experience.
Stay hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed during the active sailing hours.
Wear non-slip shoes
Closed-toe, non-marking footwear provides grip and protects your feet on deck.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seabirds like the Australasian gannet
- Occasional sightings of dolphins in the harbor
History
Auckland is known as the "City of Sails" with a rich maritime culture and the Steinlager 2 yacht holds a notable record in global sailing history.
Conservation
The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron promotes sustainable sailing practices including minimizing marine waste and protecting harbor ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker jacket
Protects against harbor winds and spray during the race.
Sunscreen
Shields skin from strong UV exposure on the water.
summer specific
Non-slip boating shoes
Ensures safety and traction on wet decks.
Sunglasses with UV protection
Reduces glare reflecting off water surfaces.
summer specific